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Meeting the Challenges of Keeping Aquatic
Animals Healthy

Among agriculturally important animals, fish
pose unique challenges for maintaining health. More than 50 diseases affect
fish and shellfish cultured in the United States, and managing diseases and
parasites is one of the industrys highest priorities. ARS supports about
two dozen scientists in three main laboratories that work together to support
fish health.

The Auburn staff works closely with
geneticists in Stoneville, Mississippi, to
improve fishes natural ability to resist disease. To date, genetic
improvement in agriculture has focused on livestock, poultry, and crops. Now
ARS researchers hope to bring both traditional breeding and molecular biology
to bear on disease management in aquatic systems.

ARS has a long history of helping fish
farmers deal with parasites. Researchers in Stuttgart, Arkansas, conduct experiments to
support regulatory approval of compounds such as copper sulfate and potassium
permanganate that can be added to the water to reduce parasites. Thats
important because few chemicals are approved to treat diseases and parasites.
Water-based treatments are often more effective because ill fish dont
eat, so medication cant be delivered effectively through food.

Other research projects include developing
diagnostic tests for important diseases, characterizing the fish immune system,
and improving nutrition for cultured aquatic animals.

For more information, visit the
web
site describing this national program.

Entomologist Edward F.
Knipling died March 17 at his home. Knipling pioneered the sterile male
insect technique that led to eradication of the wild screwworm population in
the United States, Mexico and parts of Central America.

Awards

These ARS researchers have been honored recently
for their achievements: